Planograms are an important part of any retail operation, especially convenience stores. They start with a category management team at the corporate level and end in front of customers at your store. Let’s take a look at the path they travel from beginning to end.
Where a Planogram Starts
Planograms come into play long before a convenience store even opens its doors. Initial store planning includes optimizing the space to put counters, aisles, coolers, foodservice areas, and displays in the perfect locations. These overall store plans are continually re-evaluated. Category managers develop and distribute new planograms regularly to improve the customer experience, boost stocking efficiency, and increase overall profitability. Typically, convenience store planograms are broken down into categories such as packaged beverages, dairy, salty snacks, candy, and more. The planogram lays out in detail how each group of products should be merchandised, which shelves products are placed on, and the number of facings on each shelf. Your category managers work closely with vendors to review, revise, and redistribute your store’s planograms.
Where a Planogram is Implemented
From the category management department, a planogram make their way to you, the store manager. Although you probably weren’t involved in creating the plan, your role is absolutely critical to its implementation. With all the planning that’s already happened, it’s important that you follow it exactly. All products must be displayed according to their shelf tags. Not only does this ensure that you’re merchandising and promoting products correctly, it also aids in inventory management. Double-check that planograms are being followed precisely. Browse stocked shelves daily to ensure you are maintaining product levels that keep up with customer demand. This is especially important when your store receives plans for new items or new promotions.
Where a Planogram Ends
A successfully implemented planogram ends at the most important spot in your store – in front of your customers! Planograms are designed to make your store more organized and visually appealing to your customers. Customers who know what they’re looking for can find items quickly, and customers who are browsing will find their choices and complementary options efficiently grouped together. Planograms are designed with the customer – and the customer’s buying power – in mind.
Planograms Online Training
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